How to choose a wedding photographer

These are great because you’re hearing it from someone who has seen the photographer in action. They’ll tell you things that don’t appear on the photographer’s own website.

How easy is the photographer to get on with?

How friendly?
How flexible?

Does he/she come to you, or do you have to go to their studio every time?

And how long do you have to wait for the photographs to be ready?

Make a shortlist of 2 to 4 photographers.

Then check out their websites carefully.

Websites

Look at the type of photos on display.

Maybe you could have done better?

Or are they like something out of a glossy fashion magazine?

Compare wedding photographs of each of your shortlisted photographers.

Which photographer best reflects how you want your wedding to look?

Do the people look static and posed?

Or are they relaxed and animated?

How natural are the smiles?

Are the bride and groom tense or happy?

Testimonials

Read what others say about the photographer.

Do the testimonials look genuine? Are these real people?

Price. If you want to keep it cheap, you’ll probably get a photographer with limited experience – perhaps someone who is doing a bit of wedding photography to earn extra beer money.

At the other extreme, some photographers charge thousands. Is the end result really any better than a good photographer who offers value for money?

A wedding is expensive – however you cost it.

Ask yourself what will you be left with after the wedding?

The dress and the photographs.

Don’t skimp on the photography.

Of course, I would say that. But remember, the photographs will provide the basis for your memories. In fact, as the years go by, the photographs will be your memories of your wedding day. Make sure they’re good ones.